Two dancing couples

Arthur Murray Dances

Mambo

Mambo History

In the 1940's Americans became fascinated by Latin American rhythms. The original Mambo music, El Guardia, had its beginning in 1944 as a Rumba with a riff improvisation. The Mambo combined American Jazz with the Afro-Cuban beat. Arthur Murray Studios became famous for turning out some of the best Mambo dancers of the era. As the parent of Cha Cha and Salsa, the Mambo is an exciting challenge for all dancers.

Mambo Characteristics

In the 1940's Americans became fascinated by Latin American rhythms. The original Mambo music, El Guardia, had its beginning in 1944 as a Rumba with a riff improvisation. The Mambo combined American Jazz with the Afro-Cuban beat. Arthur Murray Studios became famous for turning out some of the best Mambo dancers of the era. As the parent of Cha Cha and Salsa, the Mambo is an exciting challenge for all dancers.

Mambo songs and artists include:

Mambo #5 - Perez "Prez" Prado
Cherry Cherry - Neil Diamond
Livin' La Vida Loca - Ricky Martin

Dance Styles

Here are just a few of the dances we teach at our studios. Click on any of the dances to learn more about the history, characteristics, and famous songs for that style.